A day when feelings are celebrated. A day when declarations of love are most often heard. A day when the most marriage proposals are made. Of course, we are talking about Valentine's Day, which we traditionally celebrate on February 14th.
This celebration has conquered the entire world with its incredible romanticism and spread to almost all corners of the globe.
The history of the holiday: Who was Saint Valentine and why is he so revered?
So who is this Valentine who became a symbol of love for millions of people? The mysterious mists of time hide his clear image from us, leaving only a blurred silhouette and a whole bunch of legends. People still argue whether he really existed? Was he a specific person or a composite image? Let's leave this discourse to the experts. And let us immerse ourselves in the enchanting atmosphere of a holiday that celebrates the most beautiful feeling in the world.
The Legend of Saint Valentine
The most widespread legend tells of a kind Christian priest named Valentine who lived in the 3rd century. His contemporary, the warlike Emperor Claudius, sought to strengthen his army by introducing strict discipline. The ruler wanted soldiers to be loyal only to him and to their military affairs. And so, he forbade soldiers to marry.
But who can forbid love? This feeling is not subject even to the strictest emperors and rulers of the world. Love raged despite all prohibitions. Priest Valentine, who saw the sincere feelings of the enamored soldiers, secretly married them, despite the imperial edict that strictly forbade it. The kind heart of the pastor saw nothing wrong with two people uniting with vows of eternal love. He not only performed the sacrament, but also blessed and supported the newlyweds, guiding them on the path of love.
News of the merciful priest soon reached the tyrant himself, who ordered the offender to be imprisoned and executed. Thus, on February 14, Valentine suffered a martyr's death in the name of love, leaving behind a memory for centuries and becoming the unofficial patron saint of all lovers.
To this day, this legend inspires millions of loving couples who celebrate Valentine's Day every year on the anniversary of his death.
How to congratulate loved ones on the holiday?
The most common greeting on this day is the giving of a "valentine." This is a traditional card, created in the shape of a heart, or decorated with hearts. It is the most recognizable symbol of the holiday. By February 14, the whole world is filled with millions of eloquent cards, which are used to declare love, express secret affections, and simply lift the spirits of loved ones.
This tradition is many centuries old. It is said that the Duke of Orleans himself started it in 1411, using heart-shaped cards to remind his wife of his affection. The oldest valentine that has survived to our time dates back to 1477. What was written in it? Of course, a girl's declaration of ardent feelings for her beloved.
Who should receive valentines?
Loved ones, loved ones, and loved ones again. But not only them. Today, Valentine's Day has transformed to unprecedented scales, encompassing the broadest concept of love. Now, valentines are given not only to loved ones, but also to everyone we love, respect, or are simply happy to see. To closest people and even random strangers. To confess what is most important and simply to cheer up.
How to make an original valentine with your own hands?
The best expression of feelings is to create a festive card yourself. After all, that way we give a piece of our warmth to the product.
For the valentine to be truly special, we suggest making it from a super-modern and incredibly attractive material for creativity. Perhaps you have already guessed that we are talking about Kite foamiran.
Foamiran is very pleasant to the touch and stunningly festive in appearance. Working with this material is a pure pleasure. And the finished products amaze with their beauty.
Rich colors, velvety textures, various "special effects" in the form of glitter and plush texture... Kite foamiran is plastic and effective. It will help express feelings in the most original way!
How to create a festive card for Valentine's Day? Watch our step-by-step master class! Love, create, and realize your talents together with Kite!
